Rafa Nadal falls to Novak Djokovic in what is likely their final encounter

Novak Djokovic beats rival Rafael Nadal 6-1, 6-4 at the Paris Olympics in the second round

This match was also likely Rafa's last Olympic appearance.

Words can hardly capture the impact this man has had on the world of tennis.

From the moment he set foot on the court as a teenager, he has shown us that perseverance and effort are always worth it.

Once again, today, he gave his all.

When he clinched his first Roland Garros title on this same court in 2005, who could have imagined that the 19-year-old, covered in clay, would come to mean so much to so many?

With 22 Grand Slam titles, 14 Roland Garros victories, and 2 Olympic Gold Medals to his name, what an incredible journey it has been.

Although this wasn’t the final match of his career, it likely marks the end of his Olympics singles journey.

It's the closing of another chapter in a story beautifully crafted by a legendary figure.

Standing by him until the very end.

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